The day has finally arrived! In just one short week, freshmen across the country will be moving into their dorms for the very first time. One year ago, I was in your shoes, and a glance at any of my social media at the time will tell you that there was only one thought on my mind: What is it going to be like to make the move to college? Luckily for you, my fellow friends from Her Campus Pitt and I are ready to provide you with all the advice you could ever need. 1. Start packing early!
I waited way too long to start packing (and I am currently in the process of doing that again). If you haven’t started packing yet, now is a really good time to do so. Make lists, stay organized, and get it done. I found several useful packing tips, such as keeping clothes on their hangers and wrapping them in garbage bags, on Pinterest.
2. Indulge your parents.
They will ask to make sure you have everything you need dozens of times. They will take pictures. They will linger when it’s time to say goodbye. Just remember that moving away from home is a big deal, both for you and for them.
3. Meeting your roommate for the first time can be a little awkward. You’ve spent all summer chatting on Facebook, and you’ve got a pretty basic idea of their personality and what they look like. Still, meeting the person you’re going to live with for a year can be sort of awkward. Smile a lot and remember that even if it doesn’t seem like you’ll be instant best friends, you’ve got the whole year to make memories with them. And yes- your parents will probably want to photograph that moment too.
4. Find your landmarks.
If you’re moving onto a large campus, there’s a really good chance that you’re going to get lost. Learn a few key buildings on campus, especially the one you live in, and learn to find your way back there from anywhere you have to go. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you get lost. I strictly traveled in groups for my first week until I got a sense of where things were on campus. If you have time during Orientation Week, find all your class buildings ahead of time!
5. Take every opportunity.
Orientation week is full of planned activities, and your RA will usually be there to make sure you find your way to them. Orientation is also full of random opportunities to take a chance and meet some new people. Go to as many activities as you like, say hello to everyone, and don’t hesitate to have a little fun. That bus trip to some restaurant in some part of the city you’ve never heard of with people you’ve just met may be the most exciting thing you’ll do all year. Orientation week is your chance to broaden your horizons and possibly discover places and people you’ll want around you during the year.
6. The Freshman 15 is just a myth. Her Campus President, Jessie, stresses this point. College is full of choices that you get to make on your own. There are plenty of healthy food options available, as well as exercise classes and gyms all over campus. You’re already starting a new chapter in your life, and it is the perfect time to break in new habits. Go out and have fun. Moving into college can be stressful, but if you keep yourself busy and surround yourself with new friends, you’ll find the transition to college to be much easier. Orientation week is your time to let loose and get used to college before classes start. In the meantime, get packing! We can’t wait to see all of you on campus!
Photo Credits: All photos belong to the author.